Alabama has its starting quarterback, but who's going to back up Ty Simpson when the Crimson Tide roll into the season opener against Florida State?

Alabama has named its starting quarterback for the start of the 2025 season, handing the reins to redshirt junior Ty Simpson, who has sat behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe for the past three seasons. As Simpson takes command of the offense, Grubb still has expectations for Mack and Russell. They must continue to progress.

Ryan Grubb still has expectations for Austin Mack and Keelon Russell after neither came away as QB1 in Alabama football’s quarterback battle. Mack and Russell both flashed potential to the Crimson Tide’s offensive coaching staff during the spring and summer but came up short individually in Alabama’s three-man quarterback competition.